How to Play “Impertinence” by Handel on Piano (2 Levels, Free)
Learn Handel's Impertinence on piano: listen to the beginner and intermediate versions, then play the level of your choice with falling notes, right in your browser.
Listen and play: 2 levels
Easy
Right hand
Intermediate
Both hands
About the piece
Impertinence is a short, lively harpsichord piece written by George Frideric Handel. It is part of a collection known as the Aylesford Pieces, which consists of various works discovered long after the composer's death.
It is an excellent introduction to Baroque music for piano students. The piece features a catchy, repetitive main theme and a clear structure that makes it very satisfying to learn for those who have mastered basic five-finger melodies.
Which level should you choose?
- Right hand only: the melody alone, which carries the distinct rhythmic character of the piece. Great for practicing precision and articulation.
- Both hands: the complete arrangement, where the left hand provides a rhythmic counterpoint to the main melody. Best for those comfortable with basic coordination.
Fingering and hand position
Start with your right hand positioned comfortably over the keys to cover the range of the main theme without shifting your hand unnecessarily. Keep your fingers curved and firm, which will help you achieve the crisp, clear touch required for this Baroque style.
Focus on maintaining a steady pulse. Since the piece relies on short, repeated motifs, consistency in your finger choices is key. Try to land softly on the notes and lift your fingers cleanly to differentiate between the short melodic fragments.
Practice tips
- Listen to the version first, then play it.
- In Rhythm mode, lower the speed to 50% or 75% for the first tries.
- Play the first phrase until it's clean before moving to the next one.
- Look at the screen, not your hands: the finger numbers appear on the keys.
Learn it step by step
To master this piece, start by practicing the right-hand melody alone until you can play it fluently from memory. Focus on small sections, ensuring that the rhythm remains steady throughout each measure.
Once the right hand is secure, play the left hand part separately to internalize its movement. Finally, combine both hands at a very slow tempo, gradually increasing your speed only when you can play the music without stopping or making mistakes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Impertinence easy to play on piano?
Yes, it is a great piece for early-intermediate learners. It is short and structured, making it manageable for those who already know basic hand positioning.
What are the notes of Impertinence?
The piece follows a specific Baroque structure that moves through different melodic motifs centered around the key of G minor, focusing on clear, articulated steps.
Who composed Impertinence?
The piece was composed by George Frideric Handel, one of the most prominent composers of the Baroque period, as part of the Aylesford Pieces.
How long does it take to learn Impertinence on piano?
Most students can learn the right-hand melody in a few practice sessions. Adding the left hand typically takes a bit longer to achieve proper coordination.
Which fingers do you use for Impertinence?
Keep your hand in a neutral position and avoid over-extending. Use your thumb and fingers to maintain a relaxed shape, allowing you to reach neighboring keys with minimal effort.
Can I play Impertinence without a piano?
Yes. On DOLI PIANO you can play it with a tablet, your computer keyboard or any MIDI keyboard, for free and without an account.
Do I need to read sheet music to play it?
No. The falling notes show which key to press and when, and the finger numbers appear on the keys. You can learn to read music later.
What should I play after Impertinence?
After this, you can move on to other Baroque pieces or small classical minuets that help develop independent finger movement and better hand coordination.
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